In doing research for a new article series, I have been re-reading the two Books of Homilies. I was particularly impressed by "A Sermon against Contention and Brawling," the last of the twelve sermons in the First Book of Homilies, published in 1547.
Let us so read the Scripture, that by reading thereof we may be made the better livers, rather than themore contentions disputers. If any thing is necessary to be taught, reasoned, or disputed, let us do it with all meekness, softness, and lenity. If any thing shall chance to be spoken uncomely, let one bear another’s frailty. He that is faulty, let him rather amend than defend that which he hath spoken amiss, lest he fall by contention from a foolish error into an obstinate heresy. For it is better to give place meekly than to win the victory with the breach of charity; which chanceth where everyy man will defend his opinion obstinately....
...Then, if he cannot quiet him with gentle words, at the least let him not follow him in wicked and uncharitable words. If he can pacify him with suffering, let him suffer; and if not, it is better to suffer evil than to do evil, to say well than to say evil: for to speak well against evil cometh of the Spirit of God; but to render evil for evil cometh of the contrary spirit....
To read the entire homily, click here.
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